Veterans finding renewed purpose and connection through VOS community project funded by RNRMC and Greenwich Hospital.
Veterans and their families across Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight, Gosport, Fareham, Hampshire and the south of England are continuing to access vital wellbeing, welfare and mental health support thanks to funding from the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and Greenwich Hospital, delivered by Veterans Outreach Support (VOS).
The programme supports Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary veterans, reservists and qualifying former Merchant Navy personnel, alongside spouses, partners and carers, helping individuals build stronger support networks, reduce social isolation and improve overall wellbeing.
Using a person-centred and holistic approach, VOS delivers a wide range of activities and services designed to support both mental and physical health. These include fitness classes, choir sessions, book clubs, creative activities and weekly social groups, creating welcoming spaces where veterans and loved ones can connect with others who understand their experiences.
Monthly drop-ins in Portsmouth and on the Isle of Wight also provide access to organisations offering support with housing, employment, mental health and social integration, helping beneficiaries access practical guidance in a supportive environment.
Alongside wellbeing activities, VOS continues to provide welfare support for veterans facing challenges relating to housing, pensions, benefits and finances, as well as home visits for those requiring additional support. The charity also supports neurodiverse veterans through stabilisation and referral pathways alongside clinical staff.
The project places a strong focus on reaching veterans and family members who may feel disconnected or harder to engage, including female veterans and carers, ensuring more people are able to access meaningful support and connection within their local community.
Ian Millen, CEO at VOS, said:
“Through this generous RNRMC and Greenwich Hospital grant, we are able to reach all parts of our veteran community. The funding allows us to offer local veterans, their spouses, partners and carers the opportunity to connect with one another in a welcoming and safe environment, while ensuring those who need more specialist support can access it through VOS.
“Working in collaboration with partner organisations, our aim is to improve access to welfare and mental health care, as well as provide a range of wellbeing activities for those who need them – giving individuals the help they so richly deserve. RNRMC and Greenwich Hospital have kindly supported us in this mission for many years.
“We see first-hand the positive impact this funding has on our veterans and their loved ones’ lives – including people like Peter, who is part of our amazing volunteer team and a valued VOS member.”
Peter’s experience reflects the wider impact this support can have. After facing significant challenges following his time in service, Peter found renewed confidence and purpose through veteran-focused support and reconnecting with a community that understood his experiences. You can read more of his story here: Peter’s story | The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity
Through projects like this, veterans are not only able to access practical support, but also rediscover companionship, confidence and a renewed sense of belonging.
To find out more about Veterans Outreach Support and the services available, visit VOS here: Veterans Outreach Support | VOS
